A field emission scanning electron microscope for geoscience research and student training

This award supports the acquisition of a scanning electron microscope (SEM). The SEM will be used for imaging and spectroscopy in support of research on biological processes, early solar system processes, critical minerals, tectonic processes, and Earth’s magnetic history. Instrument usage will prioritize experiential education for graduate and undergraduate students through training in classroom settings and individualized one-on-one sessions. Students will become well-trained, independent operators that are able to collect, evaluate, and interpret the data. Students will gain imaging and spectroscopy expertise that prepares them for careers in energy, mineral resources, environmental consulting, technology, and academia. This award supports the acquisition of a variable pressure field emission SEM paired with energy dispersive and electron backscatter detectors (EDS and EBSD). The instrument design is optimized to satisfy diverse research groups in geosciences and other disciplines. Researchers will use the SEM to examine the textures and compositions of minerals and glasses, and produce compositional mosaics of thin sections to map mineral assemblages. The EBSD detector will be used to assess crystal structure, orientation, and deformation in geologic and synthetic materials. The variable pressure system allows conventional analyses of conductive samples, as well as low-vacuum analysis of precious minerals, rare meteorites, elusive electron backscatter patterns, and fragile biological specimens that cannot be carbon coated. Priority access and training on the new SEM will enable students to become independent users able to produce rich, publication-quality images and spectroscopic datasets that explore chemical, physical, biological, and geological linkages across the Earth system. This award reflects NSF's statutory mission and has been deemed worthy of support through evaluation using the Foundation's intellectual merit and broader impacts review criteria.